The Lagos State Government has introduced a water-based public engagement initiative known as “Library on the Lagoon” as part of efforts to strengthen environmental awareness, reduce pollution, and advance its blue economy strategy across the state’s inland waterways.
The initiative, unveiled recently, is designed to merge community participation, creative expression, and environmental advocacy, with officials describing it as a new approach to promoting sustainable use of Lagos’ lagoon systems.
Speaking at the launch on behalf of the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr. Tunde Ajayi, explained that the project aligns with ongoing efforts to monitor and improve water quality while reducing pollution levels in the state’s aquatic environment.
He noted that engaging creative practitioners and the wider public is essential to building stronger environmental consciousness.
According to him, the initiative creates a platform for dialogue around pollution control and the protection of marine ecosystems, particularly the Lagos lagoon.
Dr. Ajayi also expressed optimism that the project could contribute to reducing plastic waste and improving environmental outcomes across the waterways.
Project Director, Maryam Kazeem, described “Library on the Lagoon” as a reimagined knowledge space where learning takes place through direct interaction with the water environment rather than within traditional physical structures.
She explained that the concept encourages participants to engage with the lagoon through guided experiences that explore its historical, ecological, and economic significance.
Kazeem added that the project incorporates experimental tools, including an interactive installation designed to stimulate reflection on waste and environmental responsibility, while highlighting the growing challenge of pollution in Lagos waterways.
She emphasized that addressing environmental degradation requires collective action rather than isolated efforts from government alone.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Damilola Emmanuel, described the initiative as a collaborative model involving government, private sector stakeholders, and civil society aimed at promoting sustainable management of Lagos’ extensive water resources.
He noted that the programme supports the state’s broader ambition of harnessing its waterways for transportation, tourism, and economic development while ensuring environmental protection.
Emmanuel added that there are plans to expand the initiative across other parts of Lagos to deepen its impact and reach more communities.
The pilot programme, which runs from April 26 to May 2, 2026, is taking place at the Five Cowries Creek Terminal in Falomo, Ikoyi, and operates daily between 12:00pm and 6:00pm.
Developed in collaboration with LASEPA, Iranti Press, and A Whitespace Creative Arts Foundation, the initiative reflects Lagos State’s growing commitment to linking environmental sustainability with economic development under its blue economy agenda.
Observers say the project highlights the importance of public engagement and behavioural change in achieving long-term protection and sustainable management of Lagos’ waterways.
